The study of masculinities
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review the development of the field of knowledge about masculinities, and particularly to show the need for post-colonial perspectives.
Design/methodology/approach
Reading major texts in the field and analysing their conclusions, inclusions, and exclusions.
Findings
Study of masculinities is necessary to gain an adequate understanding of the whole field of gender relations. This field is now global, but the consequences of a global field of knowledge are not sufficiently recognized because of the continuing hegemony of the global north in theory, methodology, and academic networks. The coloniality of gender is outlined. Significant contributions from the global south are identified and the issues involved in decolonizing the field of masculinity studies are analysed.
Research limitations/implications
Mainly Anglophone texts discussed.
Practical implications
Redesign of curricula for teaching in this area; redeployment of resources in academic publishing and other knowledge production projects.
Social implications
Knowledge in this area is relevant to HIV prevention, poverty reduction, economic development, prevention of violence, international conflict, and educational attainment.
Originality/value
To stimulate rethinking among scholars in the field of masculinity and gender studies, and through them among those dealing with the practical issues mentioned.
Keywords
Citation
Connell, R. (2014), "The study of masculinities", Qualitative Research Journal, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 5-15. https://doi.org/10.1108/QRJ-03-2014-0006
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited